Young diabetes patients miss mark on receiving routine exams, testing

NEW YORK — A new study published in Pediatrics found that young people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes missed out on routine tests that are recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

According to the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study, which analyzed responses of 1,514 patients:

Nearly 5% self-reported that they didn't have their blood pressure checked at all or most visits;

12% self-reported that they didn't have their lipid levels measured;

17% didn't have their kidney function tested;

32% didn't receive HbA1C testing; and

34% of patients didn't undergo an eye exam.

Quality-of-care measures were based on ADA guidelines, the study authors said, adding that the results underscore the need for young patients to adhere to such recommendations in order to better manage their condition.